Citroen CX

vs

Citroen Traction Avant

France vs France — 1974 vs 1948

Citroen CX (1974)
Citroen Traction Avant (1948)
Specifications
CX GTi Turbo 2Traction Avant 15-Six H
Horsepower168 hp77 hp
Torque232 lb-ft123 lb-ft
Engine Size2,500 cc2,867 cc
0-60 mph7.8 sec21.5 sec
Top Speed137 mph81 mph
¼ Mile16.0 sec
Weight3,021 lbs2,976 lbs
Wheelbase2,845 mm3,100 mm
Length4,660 mm4,750 mm
Units Produced1,170,94426,400
Value (Excellent)$40,000$55,000
Collectibility7/107/10
Rarity6/106/10
The Verdict

On balance, the 1974 Citroën CX GTi Turbo 2 makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1948 Citroën Traction Avant 15-Six H counters with greater rarity, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1974 Citroën CX GTi Turbo 2 for outright capability, or the 1948 Citroën Traction Avant 15-Six H for a more distinctive ownership experience.

Overview

Citroën has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1974 Citroën CX GTi Turbo 2 with the 1948 Citroën Traction Avant 15-Six H highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1974 Citroën CX GTi Turbo 2 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 168 hp compared to 77 hp, a 91-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Citroën CX uses a Inline-4 OHV Turbocharged displacing 2,500 cc, while the Citroën Traction Avant relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 2,867 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1974 Citroën CX GTi Turbo 2 edges ahead at 7.8 seconds versus 21.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 26,400 units built, the 1948 Citroën Traction Avant 15-Six H is considerably scarcer than the Citroën CX's 1,170,944 examples.